David Thompson

David Thompson, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, passed away on August 17, 2024, at the age of 82, surrounded by family, after a lengthy battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Born on April 7, 1942, in Boykin, South Carolina, to parents Deacon Hazel Thompson Sr and Amie Johnson Thompson. David spent his childhood in Camden, South Carolina, helping his family harvest the land as sharecroppers. David and his five brothers spent their days raising animals, growing crops and picking cotton. David graduated from Jackson High School in Camden, SC in 1961, setting the foundation for a life marked by dedication and achievement. A proud and decorated Army veteran, David served his country from December 1964 to November 1966 as a Radio Teletype Operator. During his service David earned a National Defense Service Medal. His expertise and skill also earned him the distinction of “Expert” rifleman with the M-14 rifle, a testament to his commitment and proficiency in service to his country. After his military service, David embarked on a 33-year career at Ecolabs in Avenel, NJ. David worked for Ecolab's Industrial Hygiene Products Division. A natural born leader, David's peers elected him Union Shop Steward and he was soon promoted to Production Supervisor. David’s hard work and exceptional leadership earned him numerous outstanding performance awards throughout his career. David's vibrant life was fueled by his passion for sports and music. A dedicated fan of the New York Knicks, Giants, and Yankees, David took great pleasure in cheering on his beloved sports teams. His enthusiasm for sports extended beyond fandom, as he spent countless hours coaching youth teams and participating in recreational leagues. Whether on the court or the field, David's knowledge and passion for the game were undeniable. His dedication as a coach went beyond wins and losses; he mentored countless young athletes, leaving a lasting impact on their lives. Beyond sports, David's spirit was infectious. His love for singing and dancing brought joy and energy to any gathering. With his spirited song and dance, he had a unique ability to light up a room. David's life was enriched by his diverse passions, leaving an indelible mark on those who knew him. He will be deeply missed for his unwavering enthusiasm, his dedication to others, and his boundless joy. David's enduring love for Janie Teresa Copeland led them to wed in 1968, forming a strong and loving family. Together, they raised three sons: Derrick Timothy, Eldridge David, and Elvin Copeland. David's legacy is carried forward by his surviving sons, Eldridge and Elvin (Lena) Thompson, his brothers Michael (Mary) Thompson, Richard (Cora) Thompson, and Bill (Dorine) Thompson, sister-in-law Gladys Thompson, his five grandchildren Sasha Peterson, Justin (Cailyn) Thompson, Jalen, Cameron, and Samantha Thompson, and his four great-grandchildren Noah David, Giovanni Caleb, Malachi Russell, and Preston Isiah. He is also fondly remembered by a wide circle of family and friends. David was preceded in death by his parents, Deacon Hazel Thompson Sr and Amie Thompson; his beloved wife, Janie Teresa Thompson; his son, Derrick Thompson; his brothers, Deacon Hazel Thompson Jr and Deacon Franklin Thompson; and his nephew Ricky Thompson. David's heart overflowed with love for his family, especially his grandchildren, a testament to his enduring warmth and affection. He will be forever remembered for his tireless work ethic, his infectious sense of humor, his profound devotion to family, and his unwavering zest for life. A man of exceptional strength and character, David served as an inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing him. Services to honor and celebrate David’s life will be held on September 28, 2024, from 12-4 pm at Gabrielle’s 1351 Centennial Ave Piscataway, NJ 08854. Family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched are invited to attend

Tributes

David Thompson

April 7, 1942 - August 17, 2024